Wednesday, May 18th at 1:30pm
First Institutional Baptist Church
1141 E Jefferson St, Phoenix, AZ 85034
On Wednesday, May 18th at 1:30p.m. Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty will hand over the keys to a 15 passenger Chevrolet Van to the social services arm of First Institutional Baptist Church to help aid in the operations of providing to the needy in the community.
Accepting the donation on behalf of the First Institutional Baptist Church (FIBC) and FIBCO Family Services, Inc. (FIBCO) is Dr. Warren H. Stewart, Sr., who has served as the Senior Pastor of the church since 1977 and Founder of FIBCO who has worked tirelessly as a community activist paving the way for social justice. Stewart notably served as the Chairperson of the 1992 campaign to pass Martin Luther King Jr., Day in Arizona. Pastor Stewart is also joined by FIBCO leadership.
FIBCO was founded by Pastor Stewart in 1986. It serves the most vulnerable population by helping them get access to affordable food, quality clothing distribution, housing for low-income individuals such as seniors, veterans, and those mentally or emotionally challenged. The church also provides support for African immigrants and refugees, as well as health and healthcare assistance.
Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty got involved after hearing the agency’s legacy history and the need to replace the van that was well-worn from providing transportation and deliveries to those in need.
“Pastor Stewart and the First Institutional Baptist Church are doing some incredibly commendable things in our community and when we heard about the agency’s van constantly breaking down, we knew this was our opportunity to come in and make a significant impact that could help the church and the community for many years to come,” said CEO Todd Gillenwater of Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty.
“As founder of FIBCO and as a senior Pastor of First Institutional Baptist Church, I offer our enthusiastic appreciation to Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty for donating this much improved vehicle in service to the community. It will significantly assist us in transporting our clients, including disadvantaged and homeless persons, to get where they need to go to improve their lives. We are grateful for the continued relationship between the First Institutional Baptist Church organization and Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty,” said Pastor Stewart.
Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty values its community and is pleased to support this philanthropical work. For nearly 70 years the agents and employees of Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty have been involved in community service work and charitable organizations in Arizona such as food banks and medical institutes among others.